SAD No More: How to Create a Space That Lifts You Up During the Colder Months

Every year we are delighted to welcome our dear friend Daylight Savings, as she blesses us with an extra hour in our day. Some people take this time to catch up on sleep while others may catch up on work. It’s a great way to transition into the busier months of the year as we propel forward into the holidays, but like many things, “there is nothing [good] that exists that has only one side".

In addition to gaining an extra hour in our day, some may also acquire Seasonal Depression Disorder, a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons. For most people, this disorder affects the majority during the Fall and Winter months, causing one to feel moody or less energetic. Today, we are here to give you advice on how you can elevate your space to keep your feelings steady throughout this season and beyond! 

If you're feeling overwhelmed or struggling with your mental health, it's important to seek professional support. While we share wellness tips and advice to help you create a more positive space, this is not a substitute for medical guidance. Don't hesitate to reach out to a licensed therapist, counselor, or healthcare provider for the help you deserve. 

Warm Lighting 

Candles, fairy lights, salt lamps and more! Depending on the vibe you’re going for in your home, additions of these kinds can be personalized to fit the unique space you create. 

Not only do candles smell great, but they are easy to switch out in color and can be displayed in different fashions for every occasion. Use pillar candles on your porch to add a spooky element to your Halloween decor. Use floating or fluted candles during your Thanksgiving dinner party to 

add a cozy feel for your guests. For Christmas, highlight the mantle above your fireplace with a combination of the two to bring in the spirit of the holiday. 

For your fairy lights, tidy up that outside space and hang those string lights with a makeshift fire pit ready to go for s’mores! Set the scene for a campfire without the hassle of being in the rough of the woods. If you don’t have a functional outside space, choose a designated hallway or room where your string lights can live. Maybe this is a space where you go to reflect before and/or after a long day of work. 

I find that salt lamps are best used like desk lamps. For the Fall and Winter seasons, keep them in spaces where you roam/work often. It will give you the boost of energy you need just at the right moment. The other great idea about salt lamps is that they come in different sizes, shapes, and figures so that you can match the vibe of your space, so explore your options when deciding what would fit best. 

Seasonal Color Accents 

If you’re like me, then you love hitting up the Bullseye Playground at Target for all of your seasonal decor needs. Take products like pillows, blankets, vases, dinnerware, wreaths, placemats, and more to elevate the likeness of your space. For Fall, you can look at color palettes that exhibit shades of orange, red, yellow, and brown while for Winter you can look for shades of white, red, blues, and greens. Accent any of these with golds or metallics to add a pop to your color spread. 

And you don’t just have to stop at Target! Consider discount retailers such as Marshalls, TJMaxx, Home Goods, and even the dollar store. Use Pinterest as inspiration when developing ideas for how items from these stores could transform your spaces; anything is possible with a little creativity! 

Nature-Infused Scents and Decor 

This one is for my plant and aromatherapy lovers! 

Elevate your space with plants that enhance your way of living. For example, Spider, Pothos, and Snake plants all help to purify the air in your space, so incorporating these plants in your home will quite literally improve your lifestyle. Make them feel at home by potting them with terracotta, wooden, or concrete planters. If your space allows and the plant is built for it, you could even hang it using macrame plant hangers. 

Take this a step further by adding in that salt lamp we talked about earlier next to the plants, but as a diffuser! Just like plants, each oil has a unique purpose for its function. For example, Lavender promotes relaxation while lemon uplifts, and you don’t have to use one at a time, you can totally mix them. Be sure to follow the instructions on how many drops to use because we don’t want to get drop happy and run out! Certain brands can become pricey, so be conscious of your usage. 

These small, thoughtful touches can make a world of difference in how you feel as the seasons change, so, let’s embrace the beauty of the season together! Take these tips and make them your own—experiment, have fun, and let your personality shine through in your space. Above all, don’t forget: it’s okay to ask for help if you’re feeling overwhelmed; you’re not the only one, even if it seems like it.

Seeking support from a professional can be a vital step toward feeling your best. With a little creativity and care, your home can be a place that radiates warmth and joy all winter long. Here’s to cozy vibes, bright moments, and making this season one to remember!